Gondogoro La Trek 

Gondogoro La Trek

The Gondogoro La Trek is one of the most thrilling and breathtaking trekking adventures in the Karakoram Range of Pakistan. It is renowned for offering panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2 (8,611 meters), Broad Peak (8,051 meters), Gasherbrum I (8,080 meters), and Gasherbrum II (8,035 meters). This challenging trek combines the awe-inspiring beauty of the Baltoro Glacier and the remote Gondogoro Valley with the adventurous crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass (5,585 meters).

The trek is ideal for experienced trekkers who seek a rewarding challenge, as it provides the opportunity to see the iconic "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods," with its unparalleled vistas of four 8,000-meter peaks and many other stunning mountains. The route takes you through rugged glaciers, high mountain passes, and remote valleys, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Karakoram Range.

Trek Highlights

1. Gondogoro La Pass (5,585 meters): The highlight of the trek, crossing Gondogoro La, offers a thrilling adventure and a vantage point with some of the best mountain views in the world, including the peaks of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums.

2. K2 Base Camp: Before crossing Gondogoro La, the trek passes by K2 Base Camp, offering a close-up view of the world’s second-highest mountain, K2. It is a remarkable opportunity to experience the base camp of the "Savage Mountain."

3. Baltoro Glacier: The trek traverses the massive Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions. Trekkers are surrounded by towering granite peaks and ice-covered mountains throughout the journey on the glacier.

4. Concordia: Known as the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods," Concordia is where the Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers meet. It provides one of the most spectacular camping sites in the world, with views of multiple 8,000-meter peaks, including K2.

5. Masherbrum (7,821 meters): As one of the most beautiful and prominent peaks in the Karakoram, Masherbrum offers a stunning backdrop throughout the trek, especially from the Hushe Valley side.

6. Hushe Valley: After crossing Gondogoro La, the descent takes trekkers into the scenic Hushe Valley, which is surrounded by lush green meadows, traditional Balti villages, and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Trek Details

• Duration: 18 to 22 days (depending on acclimatization and weather conditions).

• Trek Grade: Strenuous (suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness and some high-altitude trekking experience).

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to late August.

• Maximum Altitude: 5,585 meters (Gondogoro La Pass).

• Total Distance: Approximately 150–180 kilometers.

• Start Point: Askole Village (accessible via Skardu).

• End Point: Hushe Village.

Trek Itinerary Overview

Day 1. Arrival and transfer hotel overnight stay at hotel in Islamabad.

Day 2. Briefing at the Ministry of Tourism over night stay at Hotel in Islamabad.

Day 3. Flight to Skardu overnight stay at Hotel in Skardu.

Day 4. Local arrangements and sightseeing overnight stay at Hotel in Skardu.

Day 5. Jeep drive to Askoli overnight Stay at Askoli Campsite.

Day 6. Trek to Jula overnight at Jula campsite.

Day 7.Trek to Bardumal overnight at Bardumal campsite.

Day 8.Trek to Payu overnight at Payu campsite.

Day 9. Rest day at Payu overnight at Payu campsite.

Day 10. Trek to Khobursay overnight at Khobursay campsite.

Day 11. Trek to Rdukas overnight at Rdukas Campsite.

Day 12. Trek to Goro II overnight at Goro II Campsite.

Day 13. Trek to Concorida overnight at Concordia campsite.

Day 14. Trek to K-2 Base camp & return to Concordia overnight at Concordia Campsite.

Day 15. Rest at Concordia overnight at Concordia campsite.

Day 16. Trek to Ali Camp overnight at Ali Campsite.

Day 17. Trek to Hiyulspang overnight at Hiyulspang Campsite.

Day 18. Trek to Golong overnight at Golong Campsite.

Day 19. Trek to Shaiecho overnight at Shaiecho Campsite.

Day 20. Rest day or Trek to K-7 valley and return to Shaiecho overnight stay at Shaiecho Campsite.

Day 21. Trek to Hushe overnight at Hushe campsite.

Day 22. Drive to Skardu overnight stay at Hotel in Skardu.

Day 23. Drive to Chilas overnight stay at Hotel in Chilas.

Day 24. Drive to Islamabad overnight stay at Hotel in Islamabad.

Day 25. De briefing from Ministry of Tourism overnight stay at Hotel in Islamabad.y

Day 26. Departure.

Challenges and Considerations

• High-Altitude Trekking: The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,585 meters at Gondogoro La, and proper acclimatization is critical to prevent altitude sickness. Trekking slowly and spending extra days for acclimatization is essential.

• Technical Skills: While the trek does not require advanced mountaineering skills, crossing Gondogoro La does involve steep ascents and descents over snow and ice. The use of ropes, harnesses, and crampons is necessary, and a local guide is essential for a safe crossing.

• Weather and Glacier Conditions: The Karakoram is known for unpredictable weather, and conditions on the glaciers can change rapidly. Snowstorms, rockfalls, and avalanches are possible, especially on Gondogoro La. Proper gear and flexibility in the itinerary are important.

• Remote and Rugged Terrain: The trek passes through some of the most remote and rugged areas in Pakistan. Trekkers need to be prepared for basic camping conditions, carrying supplies, and managing long days of walking on difficult terrain.

Why Choose the Gondogoro La Trek?

The Gondogoro La Trek is perfect for experienced adventurers seeking one of the most scenic and challenging trekking experiences in the world. The combination of trekking through the Baltoro Glacier, standing in the shadow of K2 at Concordia, and crossing the thrilling Gondogoro La Pass makes this trek one of the most iconic and rewarding treks in the Karakoram Range.

For those with the physical fitness and mountaineering skills to take on the challenge, the Gondogoro La Trek offers unparalleled views of the world's highest peaks, a deep dive into the wild landscapes of the Karakoram, and the chance to experience the culture of the remote Balti communities. This trek is the ultimate adventure for mountaineers and high-altitude trekkers seeking a journey to one of the most awe-inspiring regions on earth.